Shock as act of vandalism damages statue that's watched over neighbourhood for nearly a decade

The Vitruvian Girl statue – which draws inspiration from Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man – is the handiwork of famed sculptor Andy Scott who created Cumbernauld’s very own Arria statue.

The girl is the companion piece to Vitruvian Boy which is situated in Seafar.

Both statutes of the infants – said to be Arria’s children – were installed by Sanctuary Scotland who oversee the housing.

The damage which cut the figure loose from its plinth at her feet landing it on her back was caused overnight on Friday, July 16 in a move that has sent shockwaves across Carbrain and beyond.

It has also emerged that a key organisation was faced with the difficult task of telling the sculptor what had happened to his creation.

Carbrain and Hillcrest Community Council chairman William Homer said: “The Community Council are obviously appalled at the damage done. Although not publicly owned the artwork was on open public land.

"It is a polarising piece not everyone likes it but it is still a part of this communi ty’s landscape and people are rightly angry and have been calling for action.

"We have been in touch with both police, councillors and Andy Scott and will be pushing for repairs to be carried out.

"On looking at the damage it is a clean cut so there is a possibility it was attempted theft for scrap value rather than vandalism. We ask that if anyone who has any information to please pass it on.”

A spokesperson for Sanctuary Scotland said: “We are extremely upset this much- loved statue has been damaged and share the sadness felt by local residents.

"We will be contacting the sculptor to work with him to ensure the statue is repaired and restored and will also offer police officers any support they need as they investigate this incident.”

Meanwhile PC Michael Steenson confirmed: “Enquiries are ongoing. Any help from the community would be greatly appreciated.

"Anyone with information is asked to contact 101 quoting reference number 1457.”